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Aigüestortes i Estany de Sant Maurici National Park: A Pyrenean Paradise

Discover Catalonia's only national park: A Pyrenean treasure with stunning lakes, rugged peaks, and diverse wildlife. Hike, explore, and immerse yourself in nature.

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Aigüestortes i Estany de Sant Maurici National Park, the only national park in Catalonia, is a stunning mountain region in the heart of the Pyrenees. It's known for its rugged peaks, nearly 200 lakes, winding streams, and diverse flora and fauna, offering a haven for hikers and nature enthusiasts alike.

A brief summary to Aigüestortes i Estany de Sant Maurici National Park

  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Pack layers, as weather in the mountains can change rapidly, even in summer.
  • Utilize the 4x4 taxi services from Espot or Boí to access key trailheads within the park.
  • Pick up detailed trail maps at the visitor centers in Espot or Boí.
  • Be prepared for thinner air due to the park's high elevation.
  • There is no entrance fee to explore Aigüestortes i Estany de Sant Maurici National Park.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Barcelona or Lleida, take an ALSA bus to the Torrassa reservoir (C-13), between Escaló and La Guingueta. From there, transfer to a local bus to Espot. From Espot, a 4x4 taxi service is available to take you to Estany de Sant Maurici, as private vehicles are restricted within the park. Bus fare from Barcelona to Vielha is approximately €24-€35. 4x4 taxi from Espot to Estany de Sant Maurici costs from €8.00.

  • Taxi

    From the village of Espot, 4x4 taxis are available to take visitors to Estany de Sant Maurici and other locations within the park. Taxis operate year-round, weather permitting, on a first-come, first-served basis. A return journey to Estany de Sant Maurici costs approximately €10.20 per person. A taxi from Espot to Estany de Sant Maurici takes about 20 minutes.

  • Walking

    From the Prat de Pierró car park, located about 4 km northwest of Espot, follow the well-marked trail towards Estany de Sant Maurici. The walk to the lake is approximately 3 km and takes about an hour. The trail is relatively easy, with stunning views of the surrounding meadows and forests. Parking fees may apply at the car park, typically around €5-€10 per day.

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Discover more about Aigüestortes i Estany de Sant Maurici National Park

Aigüestortes i Estany de Sant Maurici National Park, nestled in the Catalan Pyrenees, is a breathtaking landscape of pristine beauty. Established in 1955, the park spans over 40,000 hectares and is Catalonia's only national park. Its name, meaning "winding streams and St. Maurice lake," perfectly captures the essence of this aquatic wonderland. The park's dramatic scenery includes towering peaks reaching over 3,000 meters, including the iconic Els Encantats, and nearly 200 crystal-clear glacial lakes. These lakes, such as Estany de Sant Maurici, reflect the surrounding mountains, creating picture-perfect scenes. The park is also home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, with forests of fir and black pine, alpine meadows, and a variety of animal species including Pyrenean chamois, marmots, golden eagles, and the elusive brown bear. Visitors can explore the park through a network of well-maintained hiking trails, catering to all levels of experience. Popular activities include hiking, mountaineering, and wildlife watching. In the winter, the park transforms into a snowy wonderland, offering opportunities for skiing and snowshoeing. The park also holds cultural significance, with traditional pastoral activities still practiced and Romanesque churches dotting the landscape. To protect this natural paradise, motorized access within the park is restricted. Visitors can access the park via 4x4 taxis from the nearby towns of Espot and Boí, or by utilizing public transportation options. The park's commitment to conservation ensures that future generations can continue to enjoy its stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity.

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